Abstract

Aim

HDCT has a recognized indication in the salvage setting of advanced GCT and is steadily utilized worldwide. While the prognostic impact of response to prior lines of CT is ascertained, that of response to induction/mobilization CT preceding single or multiple HDCT cycles is unknown. We present the results of a retrospective study of the EBMT-STWP.

Methods

Data have been collected from 16 European centers. Eligibility included adult male patients (pts) with GCT, and treatment with second or further-line HDCT between the years 2002 and 2012. Distribution of frequencies were compared between the years <2008 and ≥2008. A multivariable Cox regression model was used to evaluate the association of prespecified factors (site of tumor primary, IGCCCG category, response to induction CT, response to prior lines [chemosensitive vs chemorefractory], line of HDCT, year of HDCT, and regimen) with progression-free (PFS) and overall survival (OS).

Conclusions

Response to induction CT prior to HDCT was independently and significantly associated with PFS and OS, while response or progression to prior CT lines was not. This information could have important implications to refine patient eligibility to transplantation in this disease. These data need external validation.